I was recently doing some product research for an article (or maybe I was shopping—it’s a fine line these days) when I had the realization that many of this upcoming season’s trends were, well, kinda weird. Sure, every season comes with its fair share of out-there motifs, but a few this fall have really stuck with me, and not necessarily in a bad way. Despite my relatively simple style, I’m actually pretty into some of the stranger It items of the season, and I had a hankering my co-workers would be too. To shop the most unusual trends we actually really like, keep reading…
TINSEL:
“I’ve always been a magpie, so I fully embrace sparkly things (in moderation). I advise wearing this trend with simple pieces like jeans and T-shirts to avoid looking completely over-the-top.”
Shop the trend:
COWBOY BOOTS:
“I’ve always loved a good Western ankle boot, but this season I’m considering taking it one step further with a full-length cowboy style. There are just so many cool options!”
LIME GREEN:
“This one surprised me, too, since neons are notoriously un-chic, but I’m totally on board with wearing the electrifying hue super casually, styled with jeans and sneakers.”
SHOULDER PADS:
“Up until fairly recently, shoulder pads felt like the punchline of a fashion joke—exaggerated, dated, and out of style (or so it was assumed). But I have to say I’m intrigued by the return of ’80s fashion. I love how bold it all is, and though my shoulders haven’t gotten any kind of boost just yet, the season’s still young.”
BALACLAVAS:
“I’m not sure there are many appropriate places to wear the balaclava trend unless you’re trekking during a snowstorm or perhaps camping, but I like anything cozy and quirky.”
FUTURISTIC:
“I’m super into the futuristic-vibe things like sleek ultra-skinny sunglasses and loads of patent leather. I don’t think I can actually pull off the teeny sunglasses, but I 100% support the look.”
ZEBRA:
“I don’t wear a ton of patterns, but I never shy away from animal prints—and this fall, I’ll be reaching for zebra. I’ll be wearing it in the form of cool heels, but also a statement coat inspired by a photo of Kate Moss from the ’90s.”
Up next? Shop this week’s best new arrivals.